Can Hormone Replacement Therapy Make You Gain Weight?
Today, let's talk about the correlation between hormone replacement therapy and weight gain, partially inspired by my own unexpected weight gain after starting testosterone therapy. We'll examine the roles of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, examining how they can lead to both weight loss and gain, influenced by genetics and metabolism. While referencing clinical experience and research, we also discuss personalized HRT, the importance of liver health, and the impact of diet and xenoestrogens.
In this episode:
- How hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can lead to unexpected weight gain, despite its weight loss associations.
- Why progesterone's impact on thyroid function and metabolism can lead to weight changes during HRT.
- How testosterone replacement in women may cause weight gain due to genetic predispositions.
- Why estrogen replacement therapy sometimes results in initial weight gain in postmenopausal women.
- How liver health and metabolism optimization can mitigate weight gain during HRT.
- The influence of diet, alcohol consumption, and xenoestrogens on hormone balance.
- How estrogen affects body composition through receptor sensitivity.
- Why understanding the signs of hormone-related weight gain can aid in identifying hormonal imbalances.
- How excessive progesterone can lead to weight gain, water retention, and mood changes.
- Why testosterone therapy research is limited for women, but suggests it can aid in muscle maintenance.
- How estrogen alone may improve lipid profiles and reduce centralized body fat in postmenopausal women.
- Why adding testosterone to estrogen therapy can shift body composition toward increased lean mass.
- How estradiol prevents visceral fat storage and impacts hunger regulation and insulin sensitivity.
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Find Karen Martel on Apply Podcast
Karen Martel is a Certified Hormone Specialist and Transformational Nutrition Coach dedicated to empowering women through their health journeys.
As the host of the popular podcast The Hormone Solution, Karen tackles the complexities of hormonal health, weight loss resistance, and the challenges that come with perimenopause and menopause.
Her mission is to disrupt outdated narratives surrounding women's health, providing reliable information and practical solutions that help women reclaim their vitality. With personal experience overcoming her own health struggles, Karen offers insights into hormone optimization and sustainable weight management strategies.
Join her as she engages in enlightening conversations with experts and shares actionable advice, all aimed at helping women navigate their unique hormonal landscapes with confidence and clarity. Tune in to discover how to embrace life's stages while enhancing overall well-being.
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